Bike Check: Taka’s Master Hightek

Jan 21

By Paul.D

Master Bike Hightek 26" FGFS Fixated Fixed Gear Freestyle

No, you're not on SMC, but yes, today's feature is a 26” Fixed Gear Freestyle bike. Am I biased because of the fiery paint job? Absolutely. But when Taka made the journey all the way from Kyoto to tear up some iconic spots in the heart of Tokyo, I couldn't let him leave without a quick bike check. So, let's dive in!

I’ve always been a big fan of 26” FGFS frames, not because I believe for a second that I could pull off anything impressive with one, but because they’re such a niche passion project. When a frame like this comes out, you know it’s created by enthusiasts for enthusiasts. The Master Bike Co Hightek is a perfect example, and this particular one, with its signature paint job by Marco Marquez, makes it even more special.
Marco is also the main reason why Taka ended up with this frame in this colorway. As a huge fan of his riding style, Taka couldn’t pass up the opportunity to ride this unique version of the Hightek.

Beyond the perfect aesthetic, this Hightek was built with parts sourced from within the Fixed Gear Freestyle (FGFS) community. For example, the rims come from Fixated in the Netherlands, paired with a Master hub at the rear and a Shadow hub at the front.

The drivetrain is also from part Fixated, with a 25T sprocket and Master Microdrive rear hub, delivering a solid 2.77 gear ratio. Sitting snugly between the sprocket and a pair of Odyssey cranks is a Primo sprocket guard, ready to handle those gnarly bottom bracket grinds.

Detailed Parts List

Frameset
Master Bike Co. Hightek

Chainring and Cog Fixated 25T sprocket, Master 64 Rear Microdrive 9T

Crank Odyssey Calibur v2 Cranks 165mm

Seatpost and Saddle
Tiago seatpost, Eclat Saddle

Stem and Handlebar
Fiend Reynolds V3 Frontload Stem 50mm, Master Bars

Wheels Tenacious Fixated Rim laced to Master 64 Rear Microdrive and Shadow BMX front

The 26” Fixed Gear Freestyle (FGFS) scene is a small but amazing community. If you’re curious to learn more, you can head out to SMC and Fixed Gear Archive, they’ve got everything you need to get started. Who knows? It might just become your new hobby for the year!